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Ever imagined turning your deepest struggles into a beacon of hope for others? Katie Shelby, a paraeducator and a warrior who transformed her narrative from silence to advocacy, joins me to share how she conquered language impairment and learning disabilities. Her story is not just one of personal victory but a blueprint for inspiring resilience in students with similar challenges. Katie's journey from a nonverbal child to an educational advocate underscores the profound impact that supportive teachers and strong self-will can have on shaping a student's destiny.

Navigating the educational system with a disability can feel like a solitary trek, but Katie's experiences illuminate the trail. As we converse, we reveal the pivotal role of self-advocacy and the courage it takes to demand the support needed to thrive. From adjusting workloads to graduating college, Katie's milestones are a testament to the power of perseverance. Her work as a paraeducator stands as a testament to the difference one can make, teaching young learners the importance of standing up for their needs early on in their educational journey.

This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an exploration into the heart of teaching self-advocacy skills in special education settings. We dive into the practicalities, from customizing learning methods to connecting with the community, ensuring no one feels isolated in their struggles. Katie's future aspirations as a motivational speaker and author paint a vision of a world where language impairments and learning disabilities are no longer barriers but pathways to empowerment. Furthermore, we tackle the transformative role of communication devices for children who find verbal articulation a challenge, advocating for a collaborative approach between parents and children that champions autonomy and inquisitive thinking. Join us to celebrate the strength in every voice and the collective progress toward a more empathetic and empowering educational system.

Connect with Katie at the following links:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100047780778306&mibextid=haYZDX
Instagram: https://instagram.com/collegematerialgirl?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Email: girlnotcollegmaterial@gmail.com

If you enjoy the show, please share with your connections, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. If you want to connect with Amber to be a guest on the show or for any other reason reach out at info@amberhowardinc.com!